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Paul Urkijo’s Basque Horror ‘Gaua’ Opens in Spanish Cinemas

Rooted in Basque folklore, the festival‑tested film arrives as a visually driven, politically pointed tale of female emancipation.

Overview

  • The feature rolls out in Spain from November 14 following a competition slot at Sitges and an opening‑night berth at San Sebastián’s Fantastic and Terror Week.
  • Set in the 17th‑century Basque mountains, it blends fantasy, horror and witchcraft through the lens of witch‑hunt persecution.
  • Spoken in Euskera, the film stars Yune Nogueiras alongside Elena Irureta, Ane Gabarain and Iñake Irastorza.
  • Urkijo stages the story almost in real time across one night, emphasizing muscular production design and striking physical imagery.
  • Reviews highlight a clear political charge and a focus on female emancipation, with the film noted at Sitges despite leaving without awards.